Meditation through movements

Learn the art of meditation at a one-day workshop on Sufi dervishes, whirling and Gurdjieff movements

A secret turning in us makes the universe turn, head unaware of the feet...feet head. Neither cares. They keep turning. — Rumi

These words from the acclaimed Turkish poet, aptly describe what Sufism is all about, and explains why Sufi dervishes whirl around in circles. While those circular movements may seem easy on the eye, the reality is otherwise. Keeping all of these factors in mind, danseuse Zia Nath has organised a special one-day workshop where she will introduce Mumbaikars to the fine nuances of Sufi whirling and Gurdjieff movements.

Learn Sufi whirling, a form of movement meditation at the workshop

“Sufi whirling is a form of movement meditation among Sufis. A simple turning movement to Sufi music, has a mesmeric appeal because it becomes a mirror to our essence,” says Nath. Gurdjieff movements, on the other hand, she adds, are a series of sacred dances that were collected by the early 20th century spiritual teacher George Ivanovich Gurdjieff who was born in Armenia.

These movements resulted from his encounters with various Indo-European and Sufi orders as well as Buddhist centres during his travels through Central Asia, India, Tibet, and Africa. “He taught these movements to his students for the purpose of harmonious development of self. The practice of Gurdjieff movements help in balancing the three centres of self — mind, body and feelings; sharpen motor coordination; and experience inner discipline, harmony and silence,” she adds.